It is no longer enjoined as a means of avoiding being doubled.

As Howe inserted it in MS.

the signification now ran 'for the van or particular divisions to engage the headmost of the enemy's van, the rear the sternmost of the enemy's rear, and the centre the centre of the enemy.

But with exception of the flag officers of the fleet who should engage those of the enemy respectively in preference.'[8] This signification again is considerably modified by the Explanatory Instructions.

Article XXIV., it will be seen, says nothing of engaging the centre or of leaving regular gaps.